
Are you looking for Korean skincare that delivers results without irritation? Isntree – a rising star in K-beauty – might be the answer for your thirsty, sensitive skin. With a focus on intense hydration, soothing formulations, and a lovely glow, Isntree has quickly gained attention in South Korean beauty. Their gentle yet effective products strengthen your skin barrier while providing visible results – a perfect combination for those who want healthier skin with radiance.
Philosophy and Background
Isntree was founded by Korean skincare enthusiast (and former blogger) Jinwoo Kim, who listened to what consumers actually needed. The brand's name is a fusion of “Island”, “Natural”, and “Tree”, reflecting the philosophy of a pure, untouched island filled with natural ingredients and vitality. This meaning permeates everything Isntree does – from their ingredient choices to their values.
Sustainability and Pure Ingredients
Isntree uses only safe, natural ingredients and is transparent about the contents of their products. You won't find unnecessary chemicals here – they avoid harmful additives, strong fragrances, and drying alcohols that can disrupt the skin. It's all about gentle yet effective skincare that respects the skin's balance. Moreover, the packaging is designed with the environment in mind; Isntree uses recyclable materials and minimal plastic to reduce waste. It's skincare you can feel good about using, both for your skin and the planet.
Ethics and Safety
A major reassurance is that Isntree is cruelty free – they do not test their products on animals and ensure no animal testing occurs at any stage. They also do not sell their products in countries that require animal testing, so you can be confident that your skincare is ethically produced. Many of the products are also vegan (completely free from animal ingredients), although the brand is not 100% vegan across all products. All formulas undergo strict quality controls and dermatological testing before launch – no compromises on safety here. Isntree is proudly ISO-certified and follows CGMP standards in production, meaning each product meets high standards of purity and effectiveness. In short, you can trust that Isntree delivers dermatologically tested skincare with a focus on both results and safety.
What makes Isntree unique?
Natural + High-Tech - Isntree combines the power of nature with modern skincare technology. Their signature ingredients include nutrient-rich birch sap, soothing Centella Asiatica (cica), antioxidant-packed green tea, and radiance-boosting niacinamide. These natural ingredients hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin. For example, several of their bestsellers contain a high percentage of green tea extract from Jeju Island, rich in vitamins (including Vitamin C) and polyphenols that protect the skin from environmental damage. Isntree retains the full nutritional value of the ingredients – Green Tea Fresh Toner has a naturally light brown color because it is loaded with 80% real green tea without unnecessary additives.
Moisture, Moisture, Moisture - If there's something Isntree is known for, it's hydration. Many of The products contain multiple types of hyaluronic acid in different molecular sizes to provide maximum deep hydration. Their innovative Multi-Hyaluron Technology with up to 8–10 types of hyaluronic acid draws in and binds moisture in all skin layers. The result? Plumped, soft skin with improved elasticity and a healthy glow. The moisture booster Hyaluronic Acid Water Essence combines a full eight types of hyaluronic acid – from large molecules that hydrate the surface to tiny ones that penetrate deeply – all to chase away any signs of dryness. Together with ingredients like betaine and panthenol, it helps the skin retain moisture and strengthen its own barrier function.
Gentle for all skin types - Isntree creates skincare for sensitive skin – and for dry, combination, and oily skin as well. Thanks to skipping irritating substances, the products are also suitable for reactive skin that easily gets redness or breakouts. Everything is formulated to be gentle yet effective: even if you have acne-prone or eczema-prone skin, you can benefit from their products without worry. For example, almost the entire range is fragrance-free and alcohol-free, minimizing the risk of irritation. Additionally, Isntree often adds soothing extracts like allantoin, beta-glucan, and licorice root that calm redness and stress in the skin. Do you have problems with oily skin and pores? Their Green Tea Fresh line contains an Anti-Sebum complex that balances sebum production and minimizes pore visibility. Are you instead dry and tight in the skin? Their hyaluron products provide intense hydration and lock in moisture to keep the skin barrier strong. Isntree truly lives up to its promise to grow with consumers and give us what our skin needs.
Quality and innovation - Another factor that makes Isntree unique is how they develop their products. Every formula is born from customer feedback – they listen to what we skincare lovers are asking for and refine the recipes until everything is perfect. They use patented complexes (e.g., their plant-based Phyto-Oligo, a combination of mallow root and aloe, for extra moisture), and ensure the ingredients work together optimally. Everything is tested carefully in several rounds to ensure effectiveness without compromising gentleness. Dermatologically tested skincare is not just a slogan – it shows in the results on the skin. Many users testify how Isntree has improved their skin texture, reduced redness, and given a healthier skin tone over time. And despite this high quality, Isntree manages to keep their products surprisingly affordable – you don't have to empty your wallet to indulge in high-class Korean skincare anymore.
Popular products from Isntree
Here are some talked-about favorites from Isntree (and why they have cult status):
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++
- Short description: An ultra-light, non-greasy sunscreen that provides both high sun protection and a moisture boost to the skin. Perfect for daily use without leaving any white residue.
- Usage: Apply as the last step in the morning routine. It absorbs quickly and works great under makeup. Reapply during the day as needed.
- Target group and skin type: Suitable for all skin types – especially for those with normal to dry skin who want to avoid the tight feeling sunscreen can give. Even sensitive skin appreciates this as it is fragrance-free and doesn't sting. eyes.
- Key ingredients: Contains a total of 8 types of hyaluronic acid for maximum hydration, as well as soothing Centella Asiatica (cica) to reduce irritation. Enriched with ceramides and niacinamide to strengthen the skin barrier and provide radiance. A dermatologist describes it as "super light, elegant, and fantastic under makeup" thanks to its smooth formula.
Read more and buy: Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel here.
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner
- Short description: A refreshing facial toner with 80% pure green tea extract from Jeju Island. Restores skin balance after cleansing and prepares it for upcoming products.
- Usage: Pat a few drops of toner onto clean skin (preferably directly after washing) to provide initial hydration and calm. Can be used both morning and evening.
- Target group and skin type: Perfect for oily or combination skin that easily becomes shiny. This toner helps regulate sebum and also suits sensitive skin that needs mild, alcohol-free balancing.
- Key ingredients: Green tea (80%) full of antioxidants that soothe and protect the skin. Contains Anti-Sebum P(HD) complex proven to reduce sebum production and refine pores. Also enriched with Centella Asiatica to strengthen the skin barrier, as well as allantoin and blueberry extract that together relieve stress in the skin. The result is clearer, more matte, yet hydrated skin with improved texture.
Read more and buy: Green Tea Fresh Toner here.
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner Plus
- Short description: A deeply hydrating toner loaded with multiple types of hyaluronic acid and plant extracts. Provides a plumped, soft feel and prepares the skin to better absorb serums and creams.
- Usage: Pour a few drops into the palm of your hand and apply over the face immediately after cleansing. The toner is slightly thicker in consistency – almost like a light serum – and can be layered (dabbed in multiple layers) for extra dryness.
- Target group and skin type: Ideal for dry and dehydrated skin that feels tight after washing. Sensitive skin also benefits from the simple ingredient list without irritating substances. If your skin barrier is weakened or you use active acids/retinol, this toner is a perfect way to restore moisture balance.
- Key ingredients: Contains 5 types of hyaluronic acid in different sizes that penetrate deeply and hydrate layer by layer. The formula is enhanced with Phyto-Oligo (a blend of mallow root and aloe vera) that aids in quick absorption and extra moisture binding. Additionally, seven plant extracts – including Centella, licorice root, green tea, rosemary, and chamomile – which soothe, provide antioxidant benefits, and boost the skin's own repair ability. The goal is not only immediate hydration but also a stronger skin that can better defend itself.
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream
- Short description: An oil-free, gel-like moisturizer that cools and hydrates without being sticky. Leaves the skin dewy and fresh, perfect for those who want a lot of moisture but a lightweight feel.
- Usage: Apply an even layer as the last step at night (or before SPF in the morning). The gel melts in immediately and works excellently layered over serum without pilling.
- Target audience and skin type: Excellent for normal to oily and combination skin, especially during warmer months or if you dislike heavy creams. Even sensitive skin appreciates the soothing, cool feeling. Dry skin can use it as a moisture layer under a richer cream.
- Key ingredients: Formulated with 5 types of hyaluronic acid that in three steps replenish moisture, retain it, and improve skin elasticity. Also contains betaine and squalane for softening as well as Centella Asiatica, green tea, and licorice root extract to reduce redness and strengthen the skin. The result is long-lasting hydration and a calm skin tone without shine. The skin feels resilient, calm, and ready to face the day.
Read more and buy: Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream here.
Isntree Real Mugwort Clay Mask
- Brief description: A deep-cleansing clay mask enriched with mugwort that draws out impurities and soothes the skin simultaneously. Perfect for a spa-like home treatment when the skin feels dull or pores are clogged.
- Usage: Apply an even layer on cleansed, dry skin (avoid the eye area). Leave on for ~10 minutes until the mask is lightly dry, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Use 1–2 times a week for best results.
- Target audience and skin type: Combination and oily skin prone to acne, blackheads, or excess sebum will love this. Even sensitive skin can use it thanks to the mild, plant-based ingredients – mugwort is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. (Avoid if extremely dry, or follow up with substantial hydration.)
- Key ingredients: Contains 6 different clays (kaolin, bentonite, etc.) that effectively absorb excess oil and deeply cleanse. Mugwort extract and even genuine mugwort leaf powder help to gently exfoliate, calm redness, and accelerate healing. The mask is also enriched with plant-based pore-minimizing ingredients, leaving the skin clean but not irritated. After use, the skin appears clearer, pores less visible, and the skin feels pleasantly calm thanks to the action of mugwort.
Skincare routine with Isntree
A Korean skincare routine is about layering products in the correct order – often called the layering method – to maximize the effect. Here is a suggestion for a complete routine with Isntree and how to use each step.
Cleansing
Start with a gentle facial cleanser that gently removes dirt, sunscreen, and impurities without disrupting the skin's barrier. Example: Isntree Sensitive Balancing Cleansing Foam is a foaming cleanser that balances the skin and does not leave it tight. The purpose of step 1 is to get a clean base so that subsequent products can penetrate the skin properly.
Toner
Directly after cleansing, apply a toner to moisturize and balance the pH level. The toner acts as the first layer of moisture and helps prepare the skin for serum. Tips: In the morning, you can choose a light, sebum-regulating toner like Green Tea Fresh Toner to keep shine under control, and in the evening, perhaps an extra moisturizing toner like Hyaluronic Acid Toner Plus if your skin feels dry. The toner also soothes any irritations and begins the process of strengthening the skin barrier (thanks to ingredients like centella and hyaluronic acid).
Serum/Essence
After toner comes serum – this is where you add concentrated ingredients that work on specific needs. The layering method suggests that thinner serums and essences go first. Moisturizing serums like Isntree's hyaluronic essence plump the skin and deeply hydrate (perfect for fine lines and dehydrated skin). If you instead want to work on dull tone and pores, a niacinamide serum or vitamin C-based serum can be used to add radiance and even out the skin tone. The purpose of step 3 is to give the skin a high dose of active ingredients – such as antioxidant-rich or barrier-strengthening – that target what you want to improve.
Moisturizer
Then you seal everything with a moisturizer. Choose the texture according to your skin type: Aqua Gel Cream if you want a light gel that locks in moisture without feeling greasy, or Hyaluronic Acid Moist Cream if you need a bit richer hydration that lasts all day. The cream softens the skin, further strengthens the skin barrier, and ensures that all moisture and nutrients from previous steps remain in the skin. After this step, the skin feels supple, balanced, and thoroughly “encapsulated” with nourishment.
Sunscreen (daytime)
In the morning, you finish the routine with sunscreen – a must in Korean skincare. Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel is an excellent choice that not only protects against UV rays but also provides extra moisture and glow during the day. The purpose is to preserve the results of your routine and protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun (which can damage both collagen and radiance). In the evening, you can of course skip SPF.
By following this order – from the thinnest product to the thickest – you ensure that each layer is absorbed optimally and that your skin gets the maximum benefit from all the wonderful ingredients. Isntree's products are designed to work together in such a skincare routine, so you can easily build a comprehensive solution for your skin with this brand!
Frequently Asked Questions about Isntree
Is Isntree cruelty free?
Yes, Isntree is cruelty free. They do not test products or ingredients on animals and do not sell in markets that require animal testing.
Is Isntree vegan?
Most of Isntree's products are vegan and free from animal ingredients. However, some products contain by-products like honey, so always check the ingredient list if you want to be completely sure.
Is Isntree suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, Isntree is developed with sensitive skin in mind and avoids irritating substances like fragrance and alcohol. The products also contain soothing ingredients like centella and panthenol.
Does Isntree use natural ingredients?
Yes, the brand focuses on plant-based and clean ingredients like hyaluronic acid, green tea, and niacinamide. They avoid parabens, sulfates and mineral oils.
Does Isntree work for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes, Isntree has several products that balance oil and soothe the skin without clogging pores. For example, Green Tea Fresh Toner and Mugwort Clay Mask are popular for acne-prone skin.
In what order should you use Isntree products?
Use them according to the classic skincare routine: cleansing → toner → serum/essence → cream → sunscreen (daytime). Always start with the thinnest products and finish with the most nourishing ones.
Is Isntree dermatologically tested?
Yes, all products are dermatologically tested to ensure they are gentle on the skin. The company also follows strict quality standards.
Does Isntree help to strengthen the skin barrier?
Yes, many products contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and centella that build up and protect the skin barrier. Regular use makes the skin more resilient.
Do Isntree products contain perfume or alcohol?
Almost all products are completely free from perfume and drying alcohols, making them especially good for sensitive or reactive skin.
Conclusion – Time to give your skin love with Isntree
In summary, Isntree is a brand that truly delivers the best of Korean skincare: gentle yet effective skincare with natural ingredients, high-tech formulations, and strong values around animal friendliness and sustainability. Whether you're struggling with dryness, sensitivity, oiliness, or just want to boost your skin with more glow, there is a Isntree product that can help. With Isntree, you get dermatologically tested skincare that builds up your skin barrier and gives you the fresh radiance we all drdream of – all without unnecessary irritations.
Ready to experience the K-beauty magic yourself? Give your skin the chance to flourish with Isntree! Explore our entire range of Korean skincare and find your new favorites – whether it's a moisturizing serum for extra radiance or a soothing face mask for a home spa evening. Order your Isntree products today and start your journey towards healthier, happier skin. Your skin will thank you – with glow!