Tired of skincare that promises a lot but leaves your skin irritated and unbalanced? Round Lab is a renowned Korean skincare brand that has made a mark in the K-beauty world by combining gentle, natural ingredients with proven results. Their iconic 1025 Dokdo Toner has even been nicknamed “Korea’s national toner” thanks to its long-lasting popularity and recurring top spots on sales lists. Whether you have sensitive skin, suffer from dryness, or seek the coveted Korean “glow,” Round Lab offers gentle yet effective solutions that strengthen the skin barrier and deliver visible results.
Philosophy and Background
Round Lab was founded in 2017 and has quickly gained international recognition in South Korean skincare. Round Lab is characterized by pure skincare, focusing on natural and sustainable ingredients. Inspiration and raw materials are drawn from Korea’s unique environments where sea, mountains, and wind meet, to create skincare that is as authentic as its origin. Round Lab’s mission is to develop effective and innovative skincare with an ethical focus. The products are cruelty-free, meaning they are not tested on animals, and Round Lab strives for plant-based formulations they describe as vegan. The result is gentle yet effective products that care for the skin without causing irritation.
What makes Round Lab unique?
Round Lab stands out through its signature ingredients and dedicated focus on skin health, drawing power from South Korea’s nature in its product lines. For example, mineral-rich Ulleungdo deep-sea water from the Dokdo Islands and nourishing birch sap from the Inje forests are used. The deep-sea water, sourced from a depth of 5000 meters, is exceptionally pure and contains over 90 minerals with nourishing and anti-aging properties. Birch sap is well-known for stimulating collagen production, hydrating the skin, and counteracting inflammation. Round Lab integrates these natural ingredients into research-driven formulations to strengthen the skin barrier and provide a radiant glow.
Another prominent aspect is that Round Lab adapts its product lines to different skin needs. Round Lab’s collection includes the 1025 Dokdo series (designed for extra sensitive skin), Birch Juice series (for intense hydration), Geomundo Mugwort series (with mugwort, for acne-prone skin), Black Soybean series (with black soybean, for anti-aging), and Pine Tree series (with pine needle/Cica, for soothing care). Particularly the Dokdo and Birch series have received great recognition both in Korea and internationally – Dokdo for its gentle care of sensitive skin, and Birch for its effective hydration of dry and thirsty skin.
Round Lab is also known for its “clean beauty” philosophy: the products are free from unnecessary additives such as perfume and alcohol, minimizing the risk of skin irritation. The fact that Round Lab’s best-selling toner has also won awards several years in a row underscores their commitment to quality and effective solutions.
Popular products from Round Lab
Round Lab’s range includes several standout products that truly stand out. Here are some of the bestsellers and what makes them unique.
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner
An award-winning toner that has achieved cult status in Korea. Formulated with deep-sea water from Dokdo, it offers gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells while deeply hydrating the skin. The toner is enriched with soothing allantoin and panthenol (B5) to strengthen and care for the skin's barrier. Apply after cleansing – drop a few drops into the palm of your hand or onto a cotton pad and gently sweep over the face. Target audience: Suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive, seeking a gentle and hydrating toner without irritation.
Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
A foaming facial cleanser with a low pH (about 5.0–6.0) that effectively and gently cleanses the skin. The product contains 74 different minerals from sea water as well as ceramides and hyaluronic acid to soothe the skin and strengthen its protective barrier. The creamy formula removes excess sebum, dirt, and even ultra-fine dust particles without drying out the skin or disrupting its natural balance. Usage: Massage onto damp skin morning and evening, rinse thoroughly. Target audience: Ideal for sensitive or dry skin that needs a mild yet effective cleansing, but also suitable for oilier skin types that appreciate deep cleansing without tightness.
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 45
A lightweight sunscreen that combines broad UV protection with moisturizing properties. It functions as a 2-in-1 product – both day cream and sun protection in one. The formula is fragrance and alcohol-free, making it suitable even for sensitive skin. The sunscreen provides a natural glow and more even skin tone thanks to its moisturizing ingredients and absorbs quickly without leaving white residues or a sticky feeling. Usage: Apply as the last step in your morning routine, generously over face and neck (don't forget to reapply as needed during the day). Target audience: Suitable for all skin types, especially for those seeking a gentle yet effective sun protection that doesn't irritate the skin, and works excellently under makeup.
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream
A light yet deeply moisturizing cream that strengthens the skin's protective barrier and soothes sensitive skin. Enriched with birch sap and hyaluronic acid, it provides long-lasting hydration and helps protect the skin against external stressors. The cream absorbs quickly without feeling greasy and contributes to a supple and resilient skin feeling. Usage: Apply as the last step in your evening routine, or in the morning if extra moisture is needed (follow up with sunscreen). Target audience: Perfect for dry and moisture-deprived skin that needs to strengthen its protective barrier, but its light consistency also makes it suitable for combination skin.
Round Lab Mugwort Calming Cream
A gel-based facial cream with mugwort extract, specially formulated to soothe irritated and acne-prone skin. The light and cooling texture glides onto the skin, absorbs quickly, and leaves a fresh, dewy finish. Mugwort is naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which helps reduce redness, soothe breakouts, and promote blemish healing. Usage: Apply as the final step in your skincare routine, especially in the evening, on areas that need extra care or over the entire face as needed. Target audience: Ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin that needs balancing. The light formula is also suitable for oily skin types seeking moisture without clogging pores.
Skin Types and Conditions – What is Round Lab Suitable For?
One of Round Labs' strengths is that their product lines are designed to suit most skin types and skin issues. Here is a guide to help you choose the right products based on your skin type.
Sensitive Skin
Round Lab is specifically developed for those with sensitive skin. The entire 1025 Dokdo series is designed to be extra gentle and soothing. The products are free from irritating substances like fragrance, while ingredients such as panthenol and ceramides help strengthen the skin's barrier without causing irritation. The Pine Tree Cica line (Yangyang Pine) also contains soothing pine needle extract and centella asiatica to repair and protect sensitive skin. At the same time, BHA/LHA gently exfoliates and helps keep pores clean. Round Labs' philosophy “mild but effective” ensures that even the most reactive skin can safely use the products with good results.
Dry or Dehydrated Skin
For those who suffer from chronic dryness or moisture-deficient skin, Round Labs' Birch Juice line can be a revolutionary solution. The products, enriched with birch sap and hyaluronic acid, provide intense moisture while helping the skin bind and retain water. The result is plump and hydrated skin with a strengthened barrier and reduced flakiness. Birch Moisturizing Cream and Toner are examples of products that effectively relieve the feeling of tightness and offer long-lasting hydration. Many of Round Labs' moisturizing products also contain vitamin B5 (panthenol), which has soothing and barrier-strengthening properties – an excellent choice for restoring balance in dehydrated skin.
Oily and Combination Skin
Oily skin benefits from Round Labs' effective and well-balanced formulations. Dokdo Cleanser cleanses the skin deeply without drying it out, while helping to regulate sebum production to counteract the overproduction of oil. To keep pores clean and reduce shine, the Pine Tree (Cica) series is recommended, specifically developed to control sebum and refine pores. For example, Pine Calming Cica Cream contains mildly exfoliating BHA and LHA, which reduce excess oil, prevent clogged pores, and contribute to clearer skin. Additionally, centella and pine leaf extract in the same series have a soothing effect on breakouts and redness, helping to balance even oily or combination skin.
Acne-Prone Skin
Round Lab has identified the needs of acne-prone skin and developed the Geomundo Mugwort line, specifically designed to effectively and gently combat pimples and impurities. The products contain mugwort extract, known for its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which both counteract the bacteria that cause acne and soothe redness and irritation during breakouts. Mugwort Calming Toner and Cream help speed up the healing of blemishes while strengthening the skin's barrier, allowing the skin to recover without drying out. For those with sensitive skin prone to acne, this product line is an excellent solution – combining effective acne care with barrier protection without using harsh, drying ingredients.
Dull Skin and Pigmentation
If your skin feels tired, dull, or if you have pigmentation changes, Round Labs' Vita Niacinamide series might be worth considering. The series, containing active ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide, is specifically designed to provide shine, even out skin tone, and counteract hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide is a key ingredient that helps reduce the visibility of pores, balance sebum production, and gradually brighten discolorations. Combined with Round Lab's hydrating base formulations, these products can help improve skin tone and provide a healthy glow. To optimize results, for example, Dokdo Toner (for moisture) can be combined with Vita Niacinamide Serum (for radiance), giving the skin a rested and radiant appearance.
Example of a skincare routine with Round Lab
To illustrate how Round Lab's products can be used in practice, we present here a daytime example routine that combines selected favorites from different series.
Cleansing – 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
Start by thoroughly cleansing the face with this gentle, low-pH cleanser. It effectively removes dirt, excess oil, and overnight residues without disturbing the skin's natural balance. Rinse off with lukewarm water and gently pat the skin dry.
Toner – 1025 Dokdo Toner
Then apply Dokdo Toner to hydrate and optimally prepare the skin. Only a few drops are needed – apply the toner with your hands or use a cotton pad for even distribution. The mineral-rich formula restores the skin's moisture balance and immediately soothes any redness, strengthening the skin barrier. Additionally, the toner contributes to gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells, improving the absorption of subsequent skincare products.
Serum – Birch Juice Moisturizing Serum
When the skin is still slightly damp after applying the toner, apply a few drops of Birch Juice Serum – a moisturizing serum enriched with birch sap and hyaluronic acid for an optimal moisture boost. Massage the serum in until it is absorbed. This step deeply hydrates the skin, reduces dryness lines, and provides long-lasting radiance throughout the day. Alternatively, you can use Round Lab's Vita Niacinamide Serum if your focus is on counteracting dullness and pigmentation spots. This serum hydrates while contributing to a more even skin tone and extra radiance.
Moisturizer – Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream
Finish the routine with a barrier-strengthening moisturizer. Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream helps to lock in the moisture from the previous steps and softens the skin without feeling heavy. Apply an appropriate amount and gently massage over the face and neck. The cream forms a protective, yet breathable, layer that keeps the skin hydrated throughout the day while providing protection against external stressors.
Sunscreen – Birch Juice Sunscreen SPF 45
(In the morning, this step is an important moment!) Round Lab's sunscreen Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen is applied as the last step in your skincare routine, about 15 minutes before going outdoors. The lightweight formula provides effective protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays while adding moisture and a fresh glow. Apply a generous amount over the face and neck. The cream absorbs quickly, leaves no white cast, and works excellently as a base under makeup, allowing you to continue with your makeup routine after the sunscreen has had time to set.
This routine is of course flexible – the products can be exchanged or supplemented based on your specific skin needs. For example, Mugwort Toner can be used in the evening for acne, or a night mask from Round Lab can be added for extra nourishment. What unites all the steps, however, is Round Labs' overarching philosophy: gentle skincare that strengthens the skin's natural balance instead of harming it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Round Lab
Is Round Lab vegan?
Round Lab uses plant-based ingredients and is vegan and not tested on animals, but lacks vegan certification. Check the ingredients if needed.
Is the brand cruelty-free?
Round Lab is a cruelty-free company that does not test on animals but sells in countries that require animal testing. They are working towards alternative testing methods and a more animal-friendly industry.
Do Round Labs products contain perfume or alcohol?
Round Lab offers fragrance-free and gentle skincare for sensitive skin, with popular products like Birch Juice Moisturizing Sun Cream and the Dokdo series.
Are Round Labs products suitable for sensitive skin?
Round Lab offers gentle skincare for sensitive skin, with fragrance- and sulfate-free products. Their 1025 Dokdo series is ideal for reactive skin, rosacea, and eczema, focusing on soothing and moisturizing properties.
Is Round Lab suitable for acne-prone skin?
Round Lab offers mild and moisturizing skincare products for acne-prone skin, with series like Mugwort to soothe and Pine Cica to purify pores and promote healing.
Do Round Labs products strengthen the skin barrier?
Round Labs products strengthen the skin barrier and promote healthy skin with ingredients like ceramides and panthenol. They moisturize, repair, and protect, for example through the gentle Dokdo Cleanser that maintains the skin's balance.
Conclusion – discover Round Lab for yourself
In summary, Round Lab is a brand that truly lives up to expectations. They combine innovative solutions with gentleness and natural ingredients with science. The result is Korean skincare of the highest quality – especially tailored for sensitive skin, but appreciated by anyone who wants to strengthen the skin barrier and achieve a healthy glow. With Round Lab, you get effective products that work with the skin, not against it, minimizing the risk of irritation.
Do you want to take your skincare routine to the next level? Explore Round Labs' range and give your skin the care it deserves – where K-beauty-innovation meets gentleness. With Round Lab, you can expect radiance, balance, and a strengthened skin barrier. Discover Round Lab today and experience a new standard for gentle yet high-performing Korean skincare.
